Overview of SmartMusic
SmartMusic, now integrated into the MakeMusic ecosystem as MakeMusic Cloud, is an interactive music practice software designed to revolutionize the way students, teachers, and musicians practice and learn music.
What SmartMusic Does
SmartMusic transforms the practice experience by providing students and teachers with access to a vast library of musical pieces, including concert band, jazz ensemble, and orchestral repertoire. This software enables students to practice with rich audio accompaniments, see the music on-screen, and receive instant feedback on their performances.
Key Features
1. Accompaniment and On-Screen Music
Students can play along with full audio accompaniments for band, orchestra, and solo works. The software displays the sheet music on the screen, automatically turning pages and indicating repeats and other instructions.
2. Instant Feedback and Assessment
SmartMusic provides immediate feedback on student performances, highlighting correct notes in green and incorrect notes in red. This real-time assessment helps students identify areas that need improvement.
3. Tempo Adjustment and Looping
Users can adjust the tempo of the accompaniment to practice at slower or faster speeds, which is particularly useful for learning complex passages. The software also allows users to loop specific measures for repeated practice.
4. Recording and Self-Assessment
Students can record their performances and listen back to identify areas for improvement. Recordings can be exported as MP3 files for further review outside of the software.
5. Sight Reading and Exercises
SmartMusic includes numerous sight-reading examples and exercises, such as scales and arpeggios, which are graded in the same manner as prepared excerpts. This helps students develop their sight-reading skills in a structured and assessed environment.
6. Customization and Integration
Teachers can create custom assignments and accompaniments using software like Finale. SmartMusic also supports the import of MP3 files, allowing teachers to use any audio recording as an accompaniment.
7. Learning Management System Integration
SmartMusic integrates with popular Learning Management Systems (LMS) such as Google Classroom, Schoology, and Canvas, enabling seamless account creation and access through Single Sign-On services.
8. Gradebook and Progress Tracking
The Gradebook feature allows teachers to track student progress, access recordings, view performance scores, and provide feedback. It also includes tools for blind grading and removing identifiable student information.
9. Mobile Accessibility
SmartMusic offers a mobile app for iPhone, iPad, iPod touch, and Android devices, allowing students and teachers to access and manage assignments on the go.
Additional Functionality
- Video Recording and Instructional Videos: SmartMusic is enhancing its features to include video recording capabilities and an in-app instructional video library.
- Enhanced Playback Quality: The software is continually improving playback quality, especially when adjusting the tempo.
- Expanded Repertoire: SmartMusic is adding thousands of new educational titles from publisher partners like Edition Peters.
Overall, SmartMusic is a powerful tool that enhances music education by providing interactive practice sessions, instant feedback, and comprehensive assessment tools, making it an invaluable resource for both students and teachers.